The Lakers have now failed to reach the playoffs since 2012, although the team is expected to make significant moves in the off-season. Rob Pelinka has already completed a blockbuster deal to sign Anthony Davis, whereas the team also has the cap space to add another near max-deal. So, with plenty of player’s being linked with a move to Los Angeles, here are three individuals that could join in the next week.
#3 Carmelo Anthony
Following back-to-back disappointing spells with the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets, some have speculated that Carmelo Anthony could walk away from the NBA this summer. However, Ian Begley of SNY believes that Melo will be back for the 18-19 season, and suggests that the veteran could finally link up with LeBron James in Los Angeles:
Anthony has not played since November after being told to find a new team by the Houston Rockets. At 35, the former All-Star is running out of time to win a first NBA title, and the Lakers will provide Melo with the platform to compete. Nevertheless, Anthony will need to accept both a veteran’s minimum salary and a place on the bench.
#2 J.R. Smith
The Cleveland Cavaliers attempted to trade J.R. Smith ahead of the February deadline, and the team will once again be looking to move the veteran this summer. Smith has been linked with a number of teams, although Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports believes that Smith will once again link up with LeBron James on the Lakers:
Smith played just 11 times for the Cavs last season, averaging 6.7 points and 1.9 assists per contest on 34.2 percent shooting. Smith was sidelined back in November after publicly questioning the direction of the franchise, while also demanding a trade. Smith and LeBron won the 2016 title together during their time with the Cavs, and the Lakers also need to add guard depth to their depleted roster.
#1 DeMarcus Cousins
DeMarcus Cousins is among the best talents available in free agency, although the 28-year-old isn’t expected to command an enormous salary. After overcoming a career-threatening Achilles tear, Cousins successfully proved his fitness during the 18-19 season, although there are concerns that the former All-Star has lost some explosiveness in his game.
If the Lakers fail to bring in Kawhi Leonard, the team will break up their remaining cap space to sign two or three second-tier free agents, and with many of the NBA’s best free agents already snapped up, Cousins is among the stand out contenders.
In terms of a fit on the court, Cousins flourished alongside Anthony Davis during their season together in New Orleans, and the big also has the recent experience of playing on a stacked Golden State roster.
0 votes
